Weymouth harbour branch - to close?

[The_Rail_WAy]

It's looking increasingly likely that the Weymouth harbour branch will close in the near future as the council want to remove the tracks so they can re-develop the area in time for the Olympics in 2012. I and many others have always had an aqquired interest in the route given how unique it is.

Although the line is no longer used for passengers or freight (last use was a railtour in 1999) I think this is dissapointing fgiven the fact that:

*The government wants to emphasise the use of public transport for the 2012Olympics. Given the fact that the route is still operable it would have provided a fantastic transport link for the sailing and other events due to take place on th Weymouth quay. This could potentially be useful for the general public even when the olympics are not on.

So, disapointing news really - and not from a heritage/preservation viewpoint. Maybe there will be one final railtour before the line closes for good? If so it would be extremely popular no doubt.

What are everone elses views?

Story link plus interesting video: http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/england/dorset/7860015.stm

 

[mrcheek]

whilst its disappointing for any line to be closed, I can see the sense in this one.

The line isnt used. and if they did want to start using it they would need to spend millions on it to comply with health and safety, as it currently runs through the streets!

I guess the other idea would be to convert to some kind of tram/light rail system, but whilst this would be of benefit for the Olympic sailing, it would never justify the investment, as Weymouth is far too small a location for it to be permanently viable.

 

[455/8]

if i remember correctly i was looking through one of my publications that i have to sign for on a regular occasion and i saw in one of them that network rail have put a date that they are to do engineering work on the tram line if im right it was feb. 2010 but i will have to double check on if i was right and i well paot what is written about it.

Alan

 

[The_Rail_WAy]

The only engineering works I can see on that line will be the removal of the track.

Woud be interesting to see if any of the railtour operators are thinking of organising a tour before its closure - Im sure it would generate alot of interest. Maybe a top and tailed 37's tour from London or York?